Fireworks ordinance approved

Thursday

Aug 29, 2013 at 9:00 AM

A new fireworks mandate is being added to Sturgis city ordinances.

By Brandon WatsonTwitter: @BwatsonSJ

By Brandon WatsonTwitter: @BwatsonSJA new fireworks mandate is being added to Sturgis city ordinances. Under the new rule, residents will be allowed to discharge fireworks only during three-day periods surrounding a national holiday.The ordinance was approved Wednesday at the Sturgis City Commission meeting. It goes into effect Sept. 20.National holidays covered under the act include New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fireworks may not be discharged between 1 a.m. and 8 a.m. on those days.Fireworks also are forbidden on public property, school property, church property or the property of another individual without permission.The Michigan Fireworks Safety Act legalizes the sale, possession and use of consumer fireworks.A recent amendment to the act allows for greater local control. Those who abuse the rule or are in violation could face a fine of up to $500.